About Muhammad (PBUH) The Great Prophet of Allah:
Muhammad PBUH was born in Makkah in the year 570. Since his father died before his birth and his mother died shortly thereafter, he was raised by his uncle who was from the respected tribe of Quraysh.
Omid Safi, assistant professor of religion and philosophy at Colgate University, commented that Muhammad PBUH was the first religious leader to rise up in the full glare of history.
Many unusual events have been recorded about Muhammad's (PBUH) birth and childhood:
- His mother said "When he was born, there was a light that lit the places of Syria."
- Also at the time of his birth, "...fourteen galleries of Kisra's palace cracked and rolled down, the Magians’ sacred fire died down and some churches on Lake Sawa sank down and collapsed."
- His foster family had many experiences of amazingly good luck while he was in their care.
- As a young child, the angel Jibriel visited Him, ripped His chest open, removed His heart, extracted a blood clot from it, and returned him to normalcy.
Followers of Islam are called Muslims, they truly believe that there is only one Allah the creator of the whole universe. "Allah" is an Arabic word which means "the One True God.
His people, before his mission as a prophet, were ignorant of science and most of them were illiterate. As he grew up, he became known to be truthful, honest, trustworthy, generous, and sincere. He was so trustworthy that they called him the Sadiq (speaking always truth) and Amin (trustworthy). Muhammad PBUH was very religious, and he had long detested the decadence and idolatry of his society.
At the age of forty, Muhammad PBUH received his first revelation from Allah through the Angel Gabriel. The revelations continued for twenty-three years, and they are collectively known as the Quran.
As soon as he began to recite the Quran and to preach the truth which Allah had revealed to him, He and His small group of followers suffered persecution from unbelievers. The persecution grew so fierce that in the year 622 Allah gave them the command to emigrate. This emigration from Makkah to the city of Madinah, some 260 miles to the north, marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar.
After several years, Muhammad PBUH and his followers were able to return to Makkah, where they forgave their enemies. Before Muhammad PBUH died, at the age of sixty-three, the greater part of the Arabian Peninsula had become Muslim, and within a century of his death, Islam had spread to Spain in the West and as far East as China. Among the reasons for the rapid and peaceful spread of Islam was the truth and clarity of its doctrine. Islam calls for faith in only one Allah, Who is the only one worthy of worship.
The Prophet Muhammad PBUH was a perfect example of an honest, justice, merciful, compassionate, truthful, and brave human being. Though he was a man, he was far removed from all evil characteristics and strove solely for the sake of Allah and His reward in the Hereafter. Moreover, in all his actions and dealings, he was ever mindful and fearful of Allah.
A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History
by Michael H. Hart
My choice of Muhammad PBUH to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular levels. Of humble origins, Muhammad PBUH founded and promulgated one of the world's great religions, and became an immensely effective political leader. Today, thirteen centuries after his death, his influence is still powerful and pervasive. The majority of the persons in this book had the advantage of being born and raised in centers of civilization, highly cultured or politically pivotal nations.
Muhammad PBUH, however, was born in the year 570, in the city of Mecca, in southern Arabia, at that time a backward area of the world, far from the centers of trade, art, and learning. Orphaned at age six, he was reared in modest surroundings. Islamic tradition tells us that he was illiterate. His economic position improved when, at age twenty-five, he married a wealthy widow.
Nevertheless, as he approached forty, there was little outward indication that he was a remarkable person. Most Arabs at that time were pagans, who believed in many gods. There were, however, in Mecca, a small number of Jews and Christians; it was from them no doubt that Muhammad PBUH first learned of a single, omnipotent Allah who ruled the entire universe.
When he was forty years old, Muhammad PBUH became convinced that this one true God (Allah) was speaking to him, and had chosen him to spread the true faith. For three years, Muhammad PBUH preached only to close friends and associates. Then, about 613, he began preaching in public. As he slowly gained converts, the Meccan authorities came to consider him a dangerous nuisance. In 622, fearing for his safety, Muhammad PBUH fled to Medina, where he had been offered a position of considerable political power.
This flight, called the Hegira, was the turning point of the Prophet's life. In Mecca, he had had few followers. In Medina, he had many more, and he soon acquired an influence that made him a virtual dictator. During the next few years, while Muhammad PBUH s following grew rapidly, a series of battles were fought between Medina and Mecca. This was ended in 630 with Muhammad's PBUH triumphant return to Mecca as conqueror. The remaining two and one-half years of his life witnessed the rapid conversion of the Arab tribes to the new religion.
You Must Know This Man
You may be an antheist or an agnostic; or you may belong to any of the religious denominations that exist in the world today. You may be a communist or a believer in democracy and freedom. No matter what you are, and no matter what your ideological and political beliefs, personal and social habits happen to be - you must still know this man.
ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA confirms:
"....a mass of detail in the early sources show that he was an honest and upright man who had gained the respect and loyalty of others who were like-wise honest and upright men." (Vol. 12)
GEORGE BERNARD SHAW said about him:
"He must be called the Saviour of Humanity. I believe that if a man like him were to assume the dictatorship of the modern world, he would succeed in solving its problems in a way that would bring it much needed peace and happiness." (THE GENUINE ISLAM, Singapore, Vol. 1, No. 8, 1936)
He was by far the most remarkable man that ever set foot on this earth. He preached a religion, founded a state, built a nation, laid down a moral code, initiated numerous social and political reforms, established a powerful and dynamic society to practice and represent his teachings and completely revolutionized the worlds of human thought and behavior for all times to come.
"HIS NAME IS MUHAMMAD" May Peace of God Be Upon Him (pbuh)
He was born in Arabia in the year 570 C.E. (common era), started his mission of preaching the religion of Truth, Islam (submission to One God) at the age of forty and departed from this world at the age of sixty-three.
During this short period of 23 years of his Prophethood, he changed the complete Arabian peninsula from paganism and idolatry to worship of One God, from tribal quarrels and wars to national solidarity and cohesion, from drunkenness and debauchery to sobriety and piety, from lawlessness and anarchy to disciplined living, from utter bankruptcy to the highest standards of moral excellence. Human history has never known such a complete transformation of a people or a place before or since - and IMAGINE all these unbelievable wonders in JUST OVER TWO DECADES.
Lamartine, the renowned historian speaking on the essentials of human greatness wonders:
"If greatness of purpose, smallness of means and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could dare to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad? The most famous men created arms, laws and empires only. They founded, if anything at all, no more than material powers which often crumbled away before their eyes. This man moved not only armies, legislation, empires, peoples and dynasties, but millions of men in one-third of the then inhabited world; and more than that, he moved the altars, the gods, the religions, the ideas, the beliefs and souls....his forbearance in victory, his ambition, which was entirely devoted to one idea and in no manner striving for an empire; his endless prayers, his mystic conversations with God, his death and his triumph after death; all these attest not to an imposture but to a firm conviction which gave him the power to restore a dogma. This dogma was two-fold, the unity of God and the immateriality of God; the former telling what God is, the latter telling what
God is not; the one overthrowing false gods with the sword, the other starting an idea with the words.
"Philosopher, orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of ideas, restorer of rational dogmas, of a cult without images, the founder of twenty terrestrial empires and of one spiritual empire, that is MUHAMMAD. As regards all the standards by which Human Greatness may be measured, we may well ask, IS
THERE ANY MAN GREATER THAN HE?" (Lamartine, HISTOIRE DE LA TURQUIE, Paris, 1854, Vol. II, pp 276-277)
The world has had its share of great personalities. But these were one-sided figures who distinguished themselves in but one or two fields, such as religious thought or military leadership. The lives and teachings of these great personalities of the world are shrouded in the mist of time.
There is so much speculation about the time and place of their birth, the mode and style of their life, the nature and detail of their teachings and the degree and measure of their success or failure that it is impossible for humanity to reconstruct accurately the lives and teachings of these men.
Not so this man. Muhammad (pbuh) accomplished so much in such diverse fields of human thought and behavior in the fullest blaze of human history. Every detail of his private life and public utterances has been accurately documented and faithfully preserved to our day. The authenticity of the record so preserved are vouched for not only by the faithful followers but even by his prejudiced critics.
Muhammad (pbuh) was a religious teacher, a social reformer, a moral guide, an administrative colossus, a faithful friend, a wonderful companion, a devoted husband, a loving father - all in one. No other man in history ever excelled or equaled him in any of these different aspects of life - but it was only for the selfless personality of Muhammad (pbuh) to achieve such incredible perfections.
MAHATMA GANDHI, speaking on the character of Muhammad, (pbuh) says in YOUNG INDIA:
"I wanted to know the best of one who holds today's undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind....I became more than convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days in the scheme of life. It was the rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for his pledges, his intense devotion to this friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission.
These and not the sword carried everything before them and surmounted every obstacle. When I closed the 2nd volume (of the Prophet's biography), I was sorry there was not more for me to read of the great life."
THOMAS CALYLE in his HEROES AND HERO WORSHIP, was simply amazed as to:
"how one man single-handedly, could weld warring tribes and wandering Bedouins into a most powerful and civilized nation in less than two decades."
DIWAN CHAND SHARMA wrote:
"Muhammad was the soul of kindness, and his influence was felt and never forgotten by those around him." (D.C. Sharma, THE PROPHETS OF THE EAST, Calcutta, 1935, pp. 12)
EDWARD GIBBON and SIMON OCKLEY speaking on the profession of ISLAM write:
"'I BELIEVE IN ONE GOD, AND MAHOMET, AN APOSTLE OF GOD' is the simple and invariable profession of Islam. The intellectual image of the Deity has never been degraded by any visible idol; the honor of the Prophet has never transgressed the measure of human virtues; and his living precepts have restrained the gratitude of his disciples within the bounds of reason and religion." (HISTORY OF THE SARACEN EMPIRES, London, 1870, p. 54)
Muhammad (pbuh) was nothing more or less than a human being. But he was a man with a noble mission, which was to unite humanity on the worship of ONE and ONLY ONE GOD and to teach them the way to honest and upright living based on the commands of God. He always described himself as, 'A Servant and Messenger of God,' and so indeed every action of his proclaimed to be.
Speaking on the aspect of equality before God in Islam, the famous poetess of India, SAROJINI NAIDU says:
"It was the first religion that preached and practiced democracy; for, in the mosque, when the call for prayer is sounded and worshippers are gathered together, the democracy of Islam is embodied five times a day when the peasant and king kneel side by side and proclaim: 'God Alone is Great'... I have been struck over and over again by this indivisible unity of Islam that makes man instinctively a brother." (S. Naidu, IDEALS OF ISLAM, vide Speeches & Writings, Madras, 1918, p. 169)
In the words of PROF. HURGRONJE:
"The league of nations founded by the prophet of Islam put the principle of international unity and human brotherhood on such universal foundations as to show candle to other nations." He continues: "The fact is that no nation of the world can show a parallel to what Islam has done towards the realization of the idea of the League of Nations."
The world has not hesitated to raise to divinity, individuals whose lives and missions have been lost in legend. Historically speaking, none of these legends achieved even a fraction of what Muhammad (pbuh) accomplished. And all his striving was for the sole purpose of uniting mankind for the worship of One God on the codes of moral excellence. Muhammad (pbuh) or his followers never at any time claimed that he was a Son of God or the God-incarnate or a man with divinity - but he always was and is even today considered as only a Messenger chosen by God.
MICHAEL H. HART in his recently published book on ratings of men who contributed towards the benefit and upliftment of mankind writes:
"My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular levels." (M.H. Hart, THE 100: A RANKING OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSONS IN HISTORY, New York, 1978, p. 33)
K. S. RAMAKRISHNA RAO, an Indian Professor of Philosophy in his booklet, "Muhammad, The Prophet of Islam," calls him the "PERFECT MODEL FOR HUMAN LIFE." Prof. Ramakrishna Rao explains his point by saying:
"The personality of Muhammad, it is most difficult to get into the whole truth of it. Only a glimpse of it I can catch. What a dramatic succession of picturesque scenes! There is Muhammad, the Prophet. There is Muhammad, the Warrior; Muhammad, the Businessman; Muhammad, the Statesman; Muhammad, the Orator; Muhammad, the Reformer; Muhammad, the Refuge of Orphans; Muhammad, the Protector of Slaves; Muhammad, the Emancipator of Women; Muhammad, the Judge; Muhammad, the Saint. All in all these magnificent roles, in all these departments of human activities, he is alike a hero."
Today after a lapse of fourteen centuries, the life and teachings of MUHAMMAD (pbuh) have survived without the slightest loss, alteration or interpolation. They offer the same undying hope for treating mankind's many ills, which they did when he was alive. This is not a claim of Muhammad's (pbuh) followers but also the inescapable conclusion forced upon by a critical and unbiased history.
The least YOU could do as a thinking and concerned human being is to stop for a moment and ask yourself: Could these statements sounding so extraordinary and revolutionary be really true? And supposing they really are true and you did not know this man MUHAMMAD (pbuh) or hear about him, isn't it time you responded to this tremendous challenge and put in some effort to know him?
It will cost you nothing but it may prove to be the beginning of a completely new era in your life.
We invite you to make a discovery of this wonderful man, Muhammad (PBUH), the like of whom never walked on the face of this earth.
The Best of Creation -- "The Walking Qur`an"
by
AbuBakr Karolia
South Africa, October 27, 2003
“A WALKING QUR`AN”, EMBODYING THE LAWS OF ALMIGHTY ALLAH (S).
The life of the Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon Him) has been said by his wife, Aisha (May Allah (S) be pleased with her) to be like "a walking Qur`an", embodying the Laws of Almighty Allah (subhaana wa taalah).
This characterization and behaviour of the Prophet (S) embodies the practical message of Islam. The Nobel Qur`an is a guide, covenant, criterion, a balance and a healing (shifa) for humanity and the “Walking Qur`an” represents a noble character, which is a symbol of the Book of Allah. The Prophet (S) represents Islam and is the essence of this message and the value, wisdom, practice and object of the Rasul (S) was totally for the pleasure of Allah (S).
Allah (S) clarifies in the Noble Qur`an in Surah 2 Al Baqarah the Cow Verse 2 -5 that:
“This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who are conscious of Allah (S) (Taqwa).
“Who believe in the Unseen, are steadfast in prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them;”
“And who believe in the Revelation sent to you, and sent before your time, and (in their hearts) have the assurance of the Hereafter”.
“They are on (true) guidance, from their Lord, and it is these who will succeed”.
Allah (S) clarifies in the Noble Qur`an in Surah 2 Al Baqarah the Cow Verse 2 -5 that:
“This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who are conscious of Allah (S) (Taqwa).
“Who believe in the Unseen, are steadfast in prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them;”
“And who believe in the Revelation sent to you, and sent before your time, and (in their hearts) have the assurance of the Hereafter”.
“They are on (true) guidance, from their Lord, and it is these who will succeed”.
A MUTTAQEE CHARACTER
The above verses of the Noble Qur`an tell us that it is a guidance for those that yearn to establish Taqwa (Allah consciousness or cautious awareness of Allah), who believe in the unseen, are steadfast in prayer, spend charity, and believe in all the revelations from Allah and in the Hereafter. Taqwa (Allah consciousness or cautious awareness of Allah) is related to the beginning and the end of wisdom and the establishment of piety, righteousness and the transformation of the self, towards a perfected self.
These verses direct humankind towards a conduct that expands and develops true leadership, prosperity and happiness. This is the perfect character inspired from the guidance of the Glorious Qur`an and in total submission to Allah (S) and develops a disposition, described by Aisha (R) as the “Walking Qur`an”.
Let us consider the Prophet’s (S) noble character who submitted to his Lord, the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth and the reasons why he was the seal of the Prophets (Khataman Nabi) and who will take up his station as the intercessor for humankind in the Hereafter.
On that faithful day in the Hereafter, humankind will necessitate a person who will appeal to the Almighty Allah (S) for their case in His court. The Prophet (S) will represent the original Islam as his character that personified a “universal man” who acknowledged, recognized, submitted and pleased Almighty Allah, the Lord of the Cosmos.
The Prophet (S), as the intercessor in the courts of the Hereafter will be honoured and the divine tribute and respect will be upon him and he will be recognized as the finest creation that fulfilled the covenant, testimony and the original promise that was made by the soul (Ruh) to Almighty Allah (S).
A MERCY (RAHMA) FROM ALLAH
The Prophet (S) was described as the perfect man (Insan-al-Kamil). The Prophet (S) is the ideal model of Muslim virtue and piety for the believer. He is also the archetype and representative of the institution of Prophethood. His message was not for a single nation or community but was for humankind.
In Surah 21 Al Anbiyah, (The Prophets), Verse 107 we read:
“And We have not sent you but as a Mercy to the worlds”.
The above verse portrays the universal nature of the Prophet’s (S) mission and attributes to him a character of compassion, understanding and kindness. His temperament and disposition had to be a universal quality for it to be honoured by humankind. His was the character that was appreciated and accepted by Muslims as the final and Last Messenger of Allah (S).
The Prophet (S) was recognized in Makkah as the trustworthy (Al Amin) which gave him the credibility to carry the legacy of Prophethood. The Arabic word “Zuhud” describes the character of all the Prophets. A person who is a “Zuhud” is one who lives a simple, humble and an enlightened life, worshipping the Creator. He values his Iman (belief) and his life is based on a Tauheedi (the unity of the Creator) system, establishing a consciousness of Allah (Taqwa) and assisting humankind.
Surah 68 Al Qalam Verse 4 confirms the Prophets (S) character as beautiful and inspiring:
“And Most Certainly, thou (O Muhammad) are of most sublime and exalted character”.
THE PROPHETS (S) INTELLECTUAL ENDEAVOUR
Qadi Ayad (1118 C.E. /496 AH- 1166 C.E. /544 AH) an Imam in Tafsir and Hadith, a faqih in usul (a Jurist), a scholar in the Arabic language was from Ceuta under Spain, then an enclave of Morocco. In his magnum opus Ash Shifa, describes a biographical account of the life of Prophet Muhammad’s (S) character by his acuteness, eloquence, his nobility, his intellect, forbearance, decency, excellent conduct, his compassion and his justice amongst other qualities. We read about the immense value placed on him by His Lord and his nobility in this world and the Hereafter.
Qadi Ayad says when the Prophet (S) died he knew everything about the Shariah (Divine Laws) and its sciences without any room for doubt about its authenticity. His knowledge of the hidden realms of the heaven, earth and Allah’s (S) creation and his elaboration of Allah’s (S) Names and Attributes, the preconditions of the Last Day, the matters of the next world, the states of the happy or the wretched and other things had an absolute certainty regarding them.
A WITNESSER AND A WARNER
Allah (S) acknowledges the responsibility of the Prophet (S) and describes this tribute beautifully in the Noble Qur’an as follows:
Surah 33 Al Ahzab, (the Clans) Verse 45/46:
”O Prophet! Truly We have sent you as a Witness and a Bearer of Good News as well as a Warner, -“
“And as one who invites to Allah’s (grace) by His leave, and as a lamp spreading light”.
These verses endowed the Prophet (S) with all the ranks of nobility and every praiseworthy quality. He is a witness to his community by the fact that he has conveyed the message to them. He is a bringer of good news as a lamp that spreads light to those that accept his judgement, love him, obey him and is a Warner to those that rebel against the Creator.
THE PROPHET (S) WAS THE ACTUALIZED QUR`AN
When one studies, the Glorious Qur`an one immediately realizes that one cannot separate the Character of the Qur’an from the Character of the Rasul (S). The Noble Qur`an teaches a person how to organize, discover, and transform him/herself.
Humankind has been chosen to bear responsibility and to realize their real position in the world within the cosmology of creation. The range of a person’s freedom is within the guiding principles of the Qur`an al Kareem and the example of the Prophet who was called the “Walking Qur`an”. He was the epitome of the Glorious Qur`an and a potential man who had all the good qualities actualized by himself as the “walking Qur`an”.
Allah (S) in Surah 51 Al Dahriyat Verse 56 tells us that:
“And I (Allah) created not the jinn’s and humans except they should worship Me (Alone”.
We learn from the above verse that Allah (S) created all creation to worship Him. Therefore, the purpose of human existence is to worship Allah (S). The one who perfected the worship of Allah was the Messenger of Allah. He was created to know Allah better then anyone. He was not created to be the master of Allah’s (S) creation but to be a servant and messenger of Allah (S). Therefore, it is the Prophet (S), as a bondsman to Allah (S) (ubudiyah), who carried the final message of the Creator, was judged as the best of creation.
A BELOVED FRIEND OF ALLAH
A renowned teacher Shaykh Hamza Hanson Malik of the Zaytuna Institute, in California tells us that the name of the Prophet (S) is a passive tone and a noun that means the most oft praised. This is the station of the Prophet (S) that Allah (S) praises him, and he is praised in every tongue in the world.
The messenger of Allah was given the title “Habibullah” or the beloved of Allah (S). This is a very superior station as it reflects the Muhabbah (love and friendship) of Allah (S) on the Prophet (S).
The Qur`an al Kareem attributes to the Prophet (S) honour and is a testimony of his character, which is appreciated by Muslims worldwide. Surah’s in the Great Qur`an as Yâ-Sîn (Surah 36), Al-Muzzammil (the enshrouded one, Surah 73) and Al Muddaththir (the cloaked one, Surah 74) are named after him, demonstrating his position and station that was documented in posterity for mankind to witness and to uphold him as the last messenger from Allah (S).
Surah Yâ-Sîn in particular is known as the “heart of the Noble Qur`an” and there are many words of wisdom and a healing within it. The Wise Qur`an calls the Rasul, “Yâ-Sîn” and confirms him as a Messenger on a straight path seeking and submitting to the Mighty and Merciful Lord and Creator.
Surah 36 Yâ-Sîn, Verse 1-5 authenticates and confirms the Prophets (S) station:
“Yâ-Sîn”
“By the Qur`an, full of Wisdom,-“
“ Thou art indeed one of the Prophet’s’
“ On a Straight Way”.
“It is a Revelation sent down by (Him), the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful”.
The Prophet (S) was called by other names as Ahmed, Al Hassir (the gatherer). Al Aaaqib (one who comes last), Al Mutawakkil (One who puts his trust in Allah (S)) etc, but the most venerable name is Muhammad (S) that carries such affection, reverence and nobility by Allah (S) in the Glorious Qur’an and it is incomparable to any name or human being ever created.
Surah 47 in the Noble Qur`an is named after the Noble Prophet (S) and called Muhammad (may the Almighty sent peace and salutations upon him). This Surah acknowledges a direct recognition by Allah (S) Who appreciates His Prophet (S) and confirms his status and state of certainty.
In Surah 33 Al Ahzab (The Clans) Verse 56 Allah (S) declares:
“Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet: O you who believe! Send your blessings on him too, and salute him with all respect”.
The above verse illustrates a personification and an example of love and friendship (muhabbah). It is Allah’s (S) Sunnah to sent salutations to the Prophet (S) and commands believers to do the same with respect. Therefore, it is essential knowledge to love the Prophet (S), to emulate him and to replicate his love of Allah (S) and Allah (S) love of the Prophet (S).
Love of the Prophet (S) is what differentiates the believers in the perfection of their Iman (belief). Love for the Prophet (S) means to acknowledge, cherish and elevate all the potential goodness and greatness that Allah (S) has created within man.
Allah (S) beautified the outward character of the Rasul (S) and gave him the quality of respect to balance it. The Prophet (S) disposition was gentle and soft and was a mercy (Rahma) from Allah upon him. He was an essence of sweetness and the people who spent time with him adored and fell in love with him. He smile was a charity (sadqah) and was most welcomed by those that met him.
THE PRACTICAL MAN
In the Encyclopaedia of the Seerah a scholar Afzalur Rahman states that the Prophet (S) of Islam led a comprehensive and a perfect life. He was a married man, had children and in this sphere of life he left unique principles of human relations between husbands and wives and between parents and children. He further states that the Prophet (S) was a trader and in business transactions and the economic field he gave unparalled ideas for the establishment of a balanced and exemplary economic system for the benefit of humankind.
The Prophet (S) as an ideal man and in the light of his speech (Hadith) and action (Sunnah) provided a perfect example for humankind in every area of human endeavour. His teachings have been documented in detail and serves as a moral quality which has been adopted as a way of life which must be put into practice as a salvation for humankind. The next few paragraphs tell us about his practical wisdom and action that are appreciated by all who study and emulate the Prophet’s (S) life and example.
When we study the Seerah of the Prophet (S) and in particular when the Prophet (S) signed a treaty or truce and made a pledge, despite the fact that it was difficult on Muslims, such as the Truce of Hudaibiya (628 C.E./6AH), he honoured every word of it. The extraordinary patience and insight he showed in negotiating the truce with the envoys from Makkah, notwithstanding their procrastination and being pedantic, showed how very dear peace was to his heart.
The Truce showed the Prophets (S) foresight and diplomatic insight as it seemed to have been a defeatist and a demoralising exercise. It was due to this Truce that the Prophet (S) captured the hearts of the Meccan people during the relative period of peace that enable communications and discussions to take place with those who appreciated the Islamic message and became Muslims.
HIS ATTITUDE TOWARDS WOMEN
The Rasul (S) was very kind towards women and they were treated very badly in those days. As a young man, the Prophet (S) was greatly distressed when he heard about the burial of newly born daughters. He objected and pleaded to the clans and chieftains of the Arabs to outlaw this evil practice. When a person entered Islam, he made it an exposition of an assurance for his followers to never practice any form of infanticide. The Prophet (S) said that, “If a man has daughters and he takes good care of their upbringing, the fire of hell will not touch him”.
He did not distinguish between men and women and treated them both alike in all matters of life. He paid as much attention to the education of women as to that of men and even developed a close relationship with many women. He gave them dignity, equal to men in the community. In his sight, women and men were equal members of the society, each contributing to its growth, prosperity and development in their own sphere and in their own way, being neither superior nor inferior to the other. The Prophet (S) established a standard for women’s rights that was unequaled anywhere.
LOVE OF CHILDREN
In the Madina Mosque, the Prophet enjoyed meeting children - boys and girls - in groups. He told them about the Lord of the Universe and His angels, how Allah (S) responds to one's prayers and His command that the children should respect and obey their parents. His followers some times brought him fruits from their orchards and the Prophet (S) shared them with the children in the Mosque. He loved his grandsons, Hassan (R) and Hussein (R), and his granddaughter, Imamah (R). He taught them Qur’anic verses and was pleased with their recitation. If he heard a child weeping, he made it a point to find out from its parents the reason for this and gave it affection and sympathy. He always loved children and treated them with immense gentleness and kindness.
TOWARDS ALLAH’S (S) CREATION
The Prophet (S) was also against cruelty to animals and birds. "They are Allah’s (S) creation", he told his followers. He saw a camel, weak, bent and hungry. He urged its owner to take proper care of it. He praised the man who drew water from a well and gave it to a thirsty dog. During a journey, the Prophet saw one of his Companions pick up a little bird from its nest in a tree. When its mother started moaning and crying, he ordered the bird's return to its nest. The Prophets (S) concern for animals goes beyond the prevention of physical cruelty, but enjoins on the human species to take over the responsibility of all creatures to be their active protectors.
A noble example of chivalry was displayed when the Prophet (S) entered Makkah after the conquest of the city. In his hour of triumph, he did not claim credit for the victory and attributed it to Allah (S) completely. During the 23 years of his Prophethood, he experienced inexplicable behaviour and violence from the leaders of the city towards him and his followers. The Prophet (S) showed tremendous leadership, wisdom and courage by granting a general amnesty and forgave all the outrages against him and Islam. This action stands out in the annals of history and it is a wonderful example of respect for people and property during adverse conditions and war. His orders to his commanders and companions (R) to respect the sanctity of the city and its people thus laid a foundation for the establishment peace and the rise of Islam.
THE LIVING QUR`AN
One of the finest lessons for present day Muslims is to emulate the idea of the “walking Qur`an” by not only reading, reciting or studying the Qur`an but to live it, which is what will provide solutions for our problems and heighten our relationship with our Creator. The Noble Qur`an is a pristine book that has withered the storms and tribulations of history and remains a shining light of guidance for humankind.
The Prophet (S) was a man, but no ordinary man, he was a gift from Allah (S) and we must accept this wonderment with thankfulness (Sukr). He was a perfect, righteous character because his Iman (belief) was sound and rooted in Taqwa (Allah consciousness or transcendental awareness of Allah). The Prophet (S) represented Allah (S) and spoke on behalf of Him.
Allah (S) revealed the Noble Qur`an to the Prophet of Islam (S) over a period of 23 years, attributed to the Prophet (S) as his miracle and is the True Words of Allah, a primary source of Guidance and the Final Message for humankind. This miracle was one, which was to last for all time, therefore assigned to the Prophet (S) as his everlasting miracle.
Modern scientific minds require a scope of knowledge and confirmation that must be conclusively established and verifiable for suitable study and research. The Prophet’s (S) life have been documented in detail which has provided an interesting challenge for historians and sociologist to examine and benefit humankind from his teachings.
The guiding principles of the Wise Qur`an that the Prophet (S) practicalised provided a secure standard for humankind. His success must be analysed to find solutions for contemporary societies and to appreciate the rich heritage that provided an ethos that was Divinely Guided and established hearts that were joyous and contented.
The Prophet (S) provided and set unparalleled standards for the well being and safety of his community. He provided a social environment and structure where people felt secure and happy. He provided them with a belief system that developed individuals and societies that were successful in this world and the Hereafter.
The study of the life and history (Seerah) of the Prophet of Islam (S) has shown staggering clarity of the mysteries of the Universe and the power of his intellect encompasses the reality of the seen and the Unseen. The Nobel example and character of the Prophet (S) filled the vacuum in humankind’s spiritual make-up which only divine guidance or Prophethood could fill.
The Prophet (S) display of positive virtues brought a profound feeling of spiritual discovery, which changed and influenced the world forever. The impact that the Prophet (S) had on the social, economic and political milieu, shaped a better world and confirmed him as one of the greatest leaders and human beings ever to grace the earth. His legacy continues to be studied, respected and vibrantly influences humankind for its progression and survival.
THE NOBLE QUR`AN, A GUIDE TO SELF KNOWLEDGE AND TRANSFORMATION
At the “sermon of the mount” (632 C.E./10AH), the Rasul (S) conveyed words of caution and advised Muslims to follow the path of the Qur`an ul Kareem and his way (Sunnah) so that they will never be led astray. This is the Shariah (Divine Laws), which represents the character of the “walking Qur`an”.
He was a monotheistic character, which exemplified this unity and oneness of Allah (S) (Tauheed) and established a testament of belief on behalf of the Creator. A testament that confirms a person as a Muslim (one who submits to Allah (S)) is to accept unconditionally, to acknowledge, recognise and to testify that:
There is no God accept Allah (S) and to further testify that Muhammad (S) is the Prophet (S) (Final Rasul) of Allah (S).
This testament from an Islamic point of view verifies a most important statement of belief (Iman) in the unity of Allah (S) and the Unity of Prophethood, (Adam (AS) to Muhammad (S)) the Unity of humankind, the Unity of Religions, and the Unity of the Final message of the Lord of the heavens and earth for all time.
It is essential to appreciate that the Prophet (S) groomed and reflected a correct behaviour from the guidance of the Qur’an-ul-Kareem, which was his transformation. This self-transformation was a mirror to his companions who through self-knowledge, self-discipline and a pleasing behaviour based on the teachings of Islam established a foundation and the best society in Madinah-ul-Munawwarah, the City of Light that reflected its light to the far corners of the world.
Muslims worldwide must acknowledge, recognise and appreciate this profound unity, which is to hold fast on to the rope of Allah (S), to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet (S) and not be divided. This unity was the behaviour of the Prophet (S) and it was his worship (Ibadah) as it must be ours. He complied with the message and the injunctions of the Qur’an al Kareem and that was how he lived. He is an example for all Muslims, and must be comprehensively followed and appreciated.
The Prophet (S) of Islam taught, practised and was the Living example of the Qur`an al Kareem, the final book of Allah (S). He was the final messenger of Allah (S) who represented humankind and all the worlds and he perfected his character, embodying Allah’s (S) laws and described as the “walking Qur`an”. The values have not changed and it is the perfect way and the conduct of the Prophet (S). This is our heritage and we must live it. We should be “Walking Qur`ans”.
May Allah (S) Bless the Prophet (S) and sent salutation upon him, his family, his companions (R) and his followers (Ummah).
Innal llaha wa Malaa'ikatahu Yu salluna allan nabiyi. Ya Ayyuhal ladheena aamanu sallu alaihi wasallimu tasleema.
Allah-humma sallie alaa Muhammadeen wa aala aali sayeedana Muhammadeen wa bariek wa sallam
ADDITIONAL FACTS ON THE PROPHET (S) OF ISLAM.
Name - Muhammad
Title - Al-Mustafa, Al-Amin, Ar-Rasool
Kunyat - Abul Qasim
Born - Monday, the 12th of Rabi-ul Awwal around 570 C.E. in Makkah
Father's Name – Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Abdul Muttalib
Mother's Name – Hazrat Amina bint-e-Wahab
Died - at the age of 63 years on Monday, 28th Safar 11 AH/632 C.E.
(12th of Rabiul Awwal according to the history mentioned in many books)
Buried- in his house adjoining the mosque at Medina
Prophethood - period of 23 years, 13 years in Makkah and 10 years in Medina.
There are only four places where we can find the name Muhammad (S) inside the Holy Qur'an.
1. Ali Imran 3, 144
“Muhammad is no more than a messenger: Many were the messenger that passed away before him”.
2. Al-Ahzab 33 (The Clans), 40
“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets: and Allah has full knowledge of all things”.
3. Muhammad 47, 2
“Those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, and believe in the (Revelation) sent down to Muhammad - for it is the Truth from their Lord, - He will remove from them their ills and improve their condition”.
4. Al-Fath 48 (Victory), 29
Muhammad is the messenger of Allah; and those who are with him are strong against Unbelievers, (but) compassionate amongst each other. Thou wilt see them bow and prostrate themselves (in prayer), seeking Grace from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure. On their faces are their marks, (being) the traces of their prostration.
